7 Best Small Towns In Washington For A Crowd-Free Summer
According to the State of Washington Tourism, Washington welcomed 110.8 million visitors in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels from 2019. While this surge is excellent for the economy, it raises the question: where can visitors go to escape the crowds? The following seven towns, each with relatively small populations, often fly under the radar, while still offering plenty of summer fun. From multi-day kayaking tours and sailing charters to historic saloons and annual art festivals, these towns offer more than enough to fill your summer itinerary.
Walla Walla
Home to over 130 wineries, Walla Walla is the perfect vacation destination if you want to spend your summer vacation sipping. Many of the town’s wineries keep things lively with summer events. Pepper Bridge Winery, for example, hosts live music on the last Friday of each month through September, along with Sauvignon Blanc Sundays in July and August, where each glass comes with a complimentary snack. In addition to sipping wine, travelers can head out to Bennington Lake, where they can paddle, hike, and enjoy views of the northern Blue Mountains. For a comfortable place to unwind between vineyard visits and water activities, consider The Finch, a welcoming hotel with cozy amenities like an outdoor wood-burning fireplace and a courtyard.
Coupeville
Located on Central Whidbey Island, Coupeville is a quiet, secluded town that feels worlds away from the city. There are plenty of water-based activities to get you into the summer spirit, such as a sailing excursion on the Schooner Suva! Built in 1925, this historic vessel gives you a scenic way to explore Penn Cove, along with the chance to spot native birds like osprey, herons, and bald eagles. Travelers can also stroll along the Coupeville Wharf, a wooden wharf with a cafe, picnic tables, a gift shop, and a kayak rental business. For fresh seafood, grab lunch at the Front Street Grill, a waterfront restaurant overlooking Penn Cove and Mount Baker. Make sure to try the famous Penn Cove Mussels, which the restaurant centers its menu on.
Winthrop
Those interested in the Old West will love visiting Winthrop this summer. Many of the downtown buildings feel straight out of the past, such as Three Finger Jack’s Saloon, the oldest saloon in Washington that is open year-round for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On August 30, the town will host its Labor Day Rodeo, complete with traditional rodeo events like bulls, barrel racing, and bronc riding. Travelers hoping to connect with nature while in town can visit Pearrygin Lake State Park, a 1,186-acre recreation area with places to hike, boat, fish, camp, and birdwatch. Sun Mountain Lodge is a wonderful place to unwind at the end of the day, immersed in nature and surrounded by 1,500 acres of wilderness.
Anacortes
Between its farmers markets, arts festivals, and kayaking tours, Anacortes comes to life in the summer months. Every Saturday from May through October, the town hosts the Anacortes Farmers Market, where local artisans sell honey, berries, tuna, soap, produce, lavender products, cheese, and much more. There is also live music each Saturday during the market to enjoy. From August 1 to 3, the Anacortes Arts Festival will also take place. This annual event attracts over 220 artisans to town for a renowned fine arts show, drawing in around 80,000 attendees. Throughout the entire summer, travelers can sign up for a kayaking excursion with Anacortes Kayak Tours, which offers everything from 90-minute tours all the way up to multi-day trips through the surrounding islands.
Poulsbo
Nicknamed “America’s Little Norway,” Poulsbo lets you enjoy a European-like vacation without ever leaving the country. Travelers can enjoy some European grub at Tizley's EuroPub or grab a Scandinavian souvenir from Nordiska, a Nordic-inspired gift and home decor store. On August 3rd, the Poulsbo Sons of Norway will host a Norwegian Pancake Breakfast, offering a full breakfast with pancakes, lingonberries, bacon, sausage, scrambled eggs, and potatoes. If you will be in town on the third weekend of August, make sure to attend the Poulsbo Arts Festival, a three-day festival where local artisans sell their jewelry, ceramics, metalworking, and fabric art. There will also be live music and dance to liven the atmosphere!
La Conner
La Conner is a laid-back town along the Swinomish Channel, offering plenty of activities to boat or kayak. Travelers can start their trip in town at the La Conner Marina, appreciating hundreds of boats that are docked or checking out the artwork from a local artisan. On August 2nd, the marina will host the 25th Annual Classic Boat & Car Show, lining the marina with wooden boats, restored classic cars, and other vintage vehicles and vessels. Local food vendors, raffle prizes, and People’s Choice awards are a few of the other activities to enjoy at the event. The Swinomish Channel is a great place to kayak as well, home to marine wildlife like seals, otters, Great Blue Herons, and even bald eagles.
Snoqualmie
Best known for Snoqualmie Falls, Snoqualmie is home to one of Washington’s most popular natural attractions. Snoqualmie Falls is just a three-minute drive from downtown and draws more than 1.5 million visitors each year. The iconic 270-foot waterfall sits within a two-acre park and can be viewed from a scenic observation deck. After viewing the towering waterfall, head over to Snoqualmie Point Park, an eight-acre site that offers incredible views of the Cascade Mountains, Mount Si, and the Snoqualmie Valley. Travelers can finish the day at Snoqualmie Falls Brewery, an independent craft brewery operating since 1997.
Final Thoughts
Between its mountains, coastline, and waterfalls, it is no surprise that Washington draws in so many tourists. However, this popularity often leaves locals seeking something a bit further off the grid. These seven towns offer just that: Summer rodeos, Nordic restaurants, and local wineries that will allow you to enjoy your summer with fewer crowds. All you have to do is pack your bag and get ready for an exciting adventure!
